State Artist 2011-2012 The Texas Commission on the Arts (TCA) is seeking nominations

The Texas Commission on the Arts (TCA) is seeking nominations for the positions of 2011 and 2012 State Poet Laureate, State Musician, State Two-dimensional Artist and State Three-dimensional Artist. All Texas citizens are encouraged to make a nomination, and self-nominations are encouraged. Deadline for Texas State Artist nominations is November 1, 2010.

QualificationsAll qualified nominees must be native Texans or five-year residents of the state. Candidates must have received recognition for high levels of excellence and success in their respective disciplines. They also must have received critical reviews in state, regional or national publications.Texas State Artists are widely recognized for their contributions to the state and the advancement of their respective art forms. They are established artists with a statewide, national or international reputation. They reflect Texas’ diversity and high-quality artistic offerings.

NominationsState artist nominations are made using an online form. In addition to providing biographical information, a resume, bibliography of critical reviews and a list of awards, the nomination process requires the submission of work samples for review by a TCA evaluation panel. Multiple submissions, email messages or telephone nominations will not be considered in the selection process.

ProcessTCA oversees the selection process for the four positions, created by S.B. 1043 of the 77th Legislature. A TCA evaluation panel will review all nominations, including work samples, and submit a list of 10 names per artist category to the Texas Poet Laureate, State Musician and State Artist Committee in December. The Committee, composed of members appointed by the governor, lieutenant governor and speaker of the House of Representatives, will make the final selections sometime between January and May 2011 when the 82nd Legislature convenes.

BenefitsTexas State Artists serve one-year terms and represent the state’s artistic legacy. State Artists receive statewide recognition, and the designation provides a unique marketing opportunity. State artists also have the opportunity to be included on TCA’s Texas Touring Roster.Nomination formsF.A.Q.